I have been actively engaged in infectious disease research, with a focus on malaria, since my undergraduate studies in Ecuador. During that time, I molecularly characterized local Plasmodium falciparum populations (the causative agent of human malaria), producing the first report on the genetic structure of P. falciparum in the region. I also identified parasites with hrp2 gene deletions, which are responsible for false-negative results in rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for malaria.

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During my Ph.D., I continued investigating hrp2 deletions, evaluating their prevalence and evolution across multiple malaria-endemic countries. This work resulted in several publications in which I contributed as both first author and co-author. In addition, I developed, validated, and implemented a digital PCR (dPCR) protocol to detect hrp2/hrp3 deletions, which has been successfully adopted in countries such as Ethiopia, Thailand, and others. I have also trained technical personnel and students from various regions in molecular diagnostic techniques.

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Following my Ph.D., I conducted postdoctoral research in Dr. Pilar Pérez-Romero’s laboratory at the University of Notre Dame, where I focused on identifying monoclonal antibodies against cytomegalovirus (CMV) from samples of seropositive patients. These antibodies are currently being evaluated for their potential use in gene-based therapeutic strategies aimed at preventing and treating CMV infection.

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I currently serve as Technical Director of the Epidemiological Surveillance and National Reference Laboratories at the National Institute of Public Health Research (INSPI). In parallel, I work as an independent researcher, developing scientific projects in infectious diseases and fostering new international collaborations. My experience spans molecular epidemiology, diagnostic development, and translational immunology. I apply a rigorous and adaptable approach to research, with a strong focus on sciexntific innovation.